The Common Causes of Catalytic Converter Failure

Catalytic converters are a critical component of any vehicle’s exhaust system, and they are essential for reducing harmful emissions. Unfortunately, these components can become damaged or worn out over time, resulting in increased costs for catalytic converter replacement and other repairs. Understanding the common causes of catalytic converter failure is important to help you avoid costly repairs down the road. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common reasons why your catalytic converter may need to be replaced or repaired. We’ll also cover some tips on how to prevent further damage and extend its life as long as possible.

Read on to learn more about what can cause a broken catalytic converter and the associated costs involved with replacing it!

Call 502-804-5605 to Sell a Catalytic Converter in Louisville Kentucky
Call 502-804-5605 to Sell a Catalytic Converter in Louisville Kentucky

Reasons Why Cars Experience Catalytic Converter Failure

Catalytic converters are an important part of any car engine, helping to reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust. But these components can be costly and difficult to replace if they fail. That’s why it’s important for drivers to understand the common causes of catalytic converter failure in order to prevent them from happening in the first place. With proper maintenance and care, you can ensure that your car’s catalytic converter is functioning properly for years to come!

Here are some of the most common reasons cars experience catalytic converter failure:

Age: The age of your vehicle is one of the key factors when it comes to determining how often you need to replace or repair your catalytic converter. Generally, these components last around 10 years before needing to be replaced. If your car is older than this, it’s likely that it will require more frequent repairs and replacements as parts wear out over time.

Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors: Malfunctioning oxygen sensors can lead to an inefficient combustion process in your engine and therefore cause higher levels of harmful emissions from exhaust gases. This can result in a damaged catalytic converter due to the increased heat and pressure created by the malfunctioning sensor.

Oil Sludge Buildup: When oil starts to accumulate inside the catalytic converter, it can clog up important passages and reduce its overall efficiency. This is caused by an accumulation of engine sludge, which forms when oil breaks down over time due to heat and pressure. If you regularly change your oil according to manufacturer recommendations, then this should help prevent sludge buildup in the catalytic converter.

Faulty Spark Plugs: Faulty spark plugs can create misfires or incomplete combustion processes, leading to higher levels of emissions being released from the exhaust system. This can damage or even destroy your catalytic converter if left unchecked for too long.

Additional Causes: In addition to these common causes, there are several other factors that could lead to a broken catalytic converter such as an exhaust leak, a blocked oxygen sensor, or a damaged fuel injector. When dealing with any of these issues, it’s important to get your car serviced as soon as possible to minimize the damage and costs associated with replacing or repairing the catalytic converter.

Catalytic Converter Replacement is Pricey

Replacing your catalytic converter can be quite expensive; however, there are some things you can do to reduce the costs involved. Shopping around for different quotes from local mechanics is one way you can save money on this type of repair. Additionally, many mechanic shops offer discounts for regular customers so make sure to ask about these when getting a quote. Lastly, if you have any warranties in place on your vehicle (such as through an extended warranty company), then check to see if the cost of catalytic converter replacement is covered.

Avoid Catalytic Converter Failure in the Future

By understanding the common causes of catalytic converter failure, you can take precautionary steps to help protect your vehicle and reduce the associated costs. By regularly changing your oil, replacing spark plugs, and getting your exhaust system serviced on a regular basis, you can help extend the life of your catalytic converter and keep repair costs down in the long run.

Do you have a broken catalytic converter that you’d like to sell for cash on the spot? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell scrap car parts in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts. If you are selling a catalytic converter, you will need proof of ownership.

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Understanding Common Causes of High Cost Car Repairs

No car owner likes to hear the words “expensive repair” when they take their car in for service. Unfortunately, expensive car repairs are all too common and can be a major source of stress and financial strain. Before you panic at the thought of an expensive car repair bill, it helps to know what some of the most common causes are so that you can prepare yourself financially or even avoid them altogether.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most frequent culprits behind costly car repairs that could affect your vehicle. From catalytic converter failure to transmission problems, understanding these potential issues can help save you time, money, and hassle down the road.

Call Our Louisville Auto Salvage Yard at 502-804-5605 to Sell Old Car Parts For Cash on the Spot!
Call Our Louisville Auto Salvage Yard at 502-804-5605 to Sell Old Car Parts For Cash on the Spot!

Auto Repairs That Cost a Lot of Money

Catalytic Converter Repair

One of the most common car repairs that can come with a large bill is catalytic converter failure. The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions from your car, so when it fails, you may experience decreased performance and fuel economy as well as loud exhaust noises. Replacing this part can be expensive so car owners should pay attention to potential signs of trouble such as difficulty starting the car or decreased power when driving. It’s also important to remember that any kind of tampering with the catalytic converter is illegal and could lead to costly fines or penalties.

Transmission Repair

Another source of expensive car repairs is transmission problems. When it comes to transmissions, car owners need to watch out for signs like slipping gears, grinding noises or a burning smell coming from the car. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial that you take your car to a qualified mechanic immediately in order to avoid further damage and a costly repair bill.

Brake Repair and Replacement

Finally, car owners should also be aware of expensive brake repairs. Brake pads are an integral part of your car’s safety system so it’s important to pay attention to any noises or vibrations coming from the brakes when driving. If left unchecked, this could lead to more expensive repairs down the road such as replacing worn out rotors or calipers.

Be Prepared For Expensive Auto Repair Bills

In conclusion, car owners should understand some of the most common causes of expensive car repairs so they can better prepare themselves financially and/or take preventative measures if necessary. By understanding potential car repair costs, such as those related to catalytic converters, transmission issues and brake repairs – you can save yourself time, money and stress down the road.

How to Off-Set the Cost of Car Part Replacement

Selling auto salvage for cash is an excellent way to get rid of old, unwanted junk car parts. After all, most auto salvage parts are considered quite valuable by auto mechanics and auto repair shops because they can easily be reconditioned and reused in other cars or auto projects. In addition, selling auto salvage for cash allows you to make some money from things that were simply taking up space and were unlikely to be used anyway. Not only that, but it’s a great way to promote Eco-friendly practices as well: the more auto salvage that is used, the less demand there is for new parts which means fewer materials ending up in landfills. Ultimately, selling junk car parts for cash can be a very rewarding opportunity.

Do you have some junk auto parts that you’d like to sell for cash on the spot? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell used car parts in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts.

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The Cost of Engine Repair and Replacement in the US

The cost of vehicle maintenance and repairs is on the rise. According to AAA, the average cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle in the United States is now $1,049 per year. That’s up from $1,021 just a year ago. One of the most expensive automotive repairs is engine replacement. Aside from replacing a motor altogether, engine repairs are also on the higher end of costly auto repairs.

Continue below to learn some important facts about the cost of engine repair and replacement in the United States, including what to do if you cannot afford to repair or replace your car’s motor in Louisville, Kentucky.

Sell a Junked Car in Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Sell a Junked Car in Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

Average Prices for Engine Repair and Engine Replacement

Overhauling or replacing an engine is one of the most expensive auto repairs, typically costing several thousand dollars. Depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the severity of the damage, the cost of engine repair or replacement can vary widely.

According to Consumer Reports, the average cost to replace a car engine is $4,858. This figure is based on data from 2014-2017. The cost will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle as well as the labor costs in your area. If you are considering replacing the engine in your car, it is important to get multiple quotes from qualified mechanics to ensure you are getting the best price.

The average cost to repair a car engine can vary depending on the type of engine, but it can be quite expensive. Many people choose to replace their car engine instead of repairing it, but this can be a very costly option.

Tips for Managing High Auto Repair Costs

If you’re facing a costly engine repair or replacement, there are a few things you can do to help ease the financial burden. Many insurance companies offer auto repair coverage, which can help pay for some or all of the costs associated with engine repairs. You may also be able to finance the repairs through your car dealership or a third-party lender.

If you are considering repairing your car engine, it is important to get a few quotes from different mechanics to compare prices. You should also ask about the warranty that is offered with the repair. Some mechanics may offer a warranty on their work, but it is important to read the fine print before you agree to anything.

If you find yourself in need of engine repair or replacement, be sure to shop around and compare pricing from different mechanics or auto shops. It’s also a good idea to get a second opinion before proceeding with any repairs, just to be sure that the work is necessary and that you’re getting the best possible price.

Of course, the best way to avoid the high cost of engine repairs is to take good care of your car and have it regularly serviced by a qualified mechanic. By following this simple advice, you can help keep your car’s engine in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.

When Engine Repair Costs More Than Your Car’s Total Worth

If your engine repair or replacement costs are higher than your car’s total market value, it is considered to be a total loss vehicle, which means totaled. Total loss vehicles are those that have been damaged to the point where repairs would cost more than the vehicle is worth, or that have been declared a total loss by an insurance company. If you own a total loss vehicle, you may be able to sell it for scrap value or parts at a local Louisville auto salvage yard.

Do you have some junk auto parts that you’d like to sell for cash on the spot? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts.

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Easy Guide to Jump Starting a Dead Car Battery

A car battery can die for a number of reasons. The most common cause is simple – age. Batteries have a natural lifespan, and after a few years they just stop being able to hold a charge. Other causes of battery death include extreme temperatures, loose or corroded connections, and electrical issues within the car itself.

Continue below to learn more about car battery care, including how to jump start a dead car battery using a set of jumper cables and a good Samaritan.

Sell Junk Car Parts Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Sell Junk Car Parts Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

Car Battery Maintenance

Despite what some people may think, it’s actually quite easy to prevent a battery from dying prematurely. The most important thing to do is to keep it clean. Dirty batteries are more likely to corrode, and corrosion can lead to all sorts of problems. If you live in an area with cold winters, make sure to keep your battery warm – either by storing it in a garage or by using a battery blanket. And finally, if you suspect that your car has any electrical issues, get them fixed as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues will only make them worse, and they could eventually lead to your battery dying.

It’s important to maintain your car battery to extend its lifespan and keep it working properly. Here are a few tips on how to do so:

▶ Keep it clean – free of dirt, corrosion, and other debris.

▶ Check the water level regularly and top it off with distilled water if necessary.

▶ Inspect the terminals and connections to make sure they’re tight and free of corrosion.

▶ Have the battery tested regularly to check its performance and identify any potential issues.

▶ If your battery is more than 3 years old, consider replacing it.

Following these tips will help you keep your car battery in good condition and prevent any problems down the road.

How to Jump Start a Dead Battery

A car battery can die suddenly and without warning. If you’re lucky, it will happen when you’re at home or work and you can call a friend or tow truck to help. But if it happens when you’re out and about, you’ll need to know how to jump start your car battery. It’s actually not that difficult, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your car.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

■ Jumper cables
■ Another car with a working battery
■ A set of instructions

Here’s How To Do It:

1. Park the working car next to the car with the dead battery, making sure that the two batteries are not touching.

2. Turn off all lights and accessories in both cars.

3. Connect one end of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.

4. Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.

5. Connect one end of the negative (black) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.

6. Connect the other end of the negative jumper cable to a metal part of the car with the dead battery. This helps to ground the circuit and prevents sparks.

7. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.

8. Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t start, check the cables to make sure they’re all connected properly and try again.

9. Once the car with the dead battery is running, disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order that you connected them.

Congratulations! Your battery should be charged up again!

Did your car battery die for good this time? If so, sell it for cash on the spot, then place that profit towards a new car battery! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car parts in Louisville, Kentucky for an instant cash payout. We provide FREE junk car removal!

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Should I Have My Car Suspension Checked Out?

Does your car seem more like a carnival ride when you drive? Is it bouncing and bumping to every little atypical terrain below your feet? Or perhaps it has gotten a bit squeaky? If you have your car’s suspension system at the front of your mind, there is likely a reason, and that reason is that it needs some attention.

Continue below to learn some common signs of car suspension trouble, plus when you should make the decision to have yours inspected or serviced.

Louisville Kentucky Car Scrappers 502-804-5605
Louisville Kentucky Car Scrappers 502-804-5605

Signs of Car Suspension Failure

The top three signs that suggest your automotive suspension system is experiencing some decline or defects include sagging on one end of the vehicle, pulling to the side, and springy riding. These signs might appear singularly, in combinations, or all at once.

Sagging on One End

One of the most common signs of a suspension problem in any vehicle, whether car truck, is visible. Sagging on one in two. If the front and or the rear and of your car is lower than the other by a significant measure, it could mean that your suspension system has a damaged spring or a blown shock. Both of these damages would require professional automotive repair and parts replacement.

Pulling During Turns

If your vehicle is drifting or pulling to one side as you drive or turn, your suspension system might be experiencing internal mechanical issues. Some of the most common suspension problems that cause cars to pull to one side or drift include damaged tie rods, sticky brake calipers, and damaged steering racks.

Bouncy Riding

When you drive your vehicle, does it seem overly bouncy and springy? Excessive bounciness while driving is a common indication of a car suspension problem. The issue is always due to worn out struts and shocks. If the bouncing is happening at the front end of into your vehicle, it is the struts. If it is happening at the rear end of the vehicle, it is the shocks.

Consequences of Driving With a Damaged Suspension System

If you continue to drive your car with a damaged suspension system, you risk causing severe and irreversible damages that might total your vehicle. The good news in this case would be that you can scrap your car at a local Louisville auto salvage yard for cash on the spot. Just be sure to choose certified and experienced junk car buyers in Kentucky to ensure you get the full scrap value for your junk car.

Would you like to skip the hassle of searching for reputable auto scrappers in Kentucky and go straight to the leading salvage yard in Louisville? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your car for cash on the spot to a trusted Louisville junk car buyer! We offer free junk car removal in all surrounding counties.

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Check These 6 Automotive Fluid Levels in Your Car Right Now

Part of being a safe driver is taking good care of your car. A car that is well-maintained and properly serviced will perform better, and therefore, keep you and your passengers safer. An important element of best practice car care is automotive fluid management. Your vehicle, no matter which make or model, requires at least 6 essential fluids for optimal performance and safety. These fluids are so important that you should get up right now and check your vehicle’s levels!

Continue below to learn which automotive fluids are the most essential and should be checked on a routine basis.

Junk Car Buying Company Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Junk Car Buying Company Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

6 Essential Automotive Fluids to Check Regularly

The 6 most important automotive fluids that you should check on a weekly and monthly basis include motor oil, radiator fluid (coolant/anti-freeze), transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. In some cases, for vehicles that apply, you will need to address differential fluid levels and battery fluid levels too.

Motor Oil

Also known as engine oil, this automotive fluid might arguably be the most important. Without it, your car simply will not run. Checking your motor oil levels easy and refilling the oil in your car is even easier. You will need to refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil dipstick under the hood of your car. It should be clearly labeled and easy to find. This is the rod that will show you where your motor oil levels are at.

The lower down the rod the motor oil residue is, the less you have. Simply pull it out, wipe it with a cloth, then insert it back in. Then pull it out for inspection. You want the dipstick to be at least halfway covered in oil when you pull it back out. You should have your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or whenever your manual recommends.

Coolant

Your vehicle’s engine gets hot; so hot, that it can damage the internal components and mechanism within the motor and other areas of the vehicle. To regulate engine temperatures, your car relies on radiator fluid, also known as coolant or antifreeze. If your car engine overheats, it is likely due to a low level of coolant. Fortunately, checking and refilling your radiator fluid is just as easy as checking your oil. Simply refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating and refiling your coolant reservoir.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic cars use transmission fluid, which basically works as an internal lubricant to keep the gears shifting smoothly. Without proper transmission fluid levels, your car will begin to experience stress within the transmission system. You might notice slowed or struggling acceleration, shaking, or loud idling.

Checking your transmission fluid levels is the same as checking your oil, expect you do it while the car is running. There should be another dipstick somewhere under the hood of your car. Refer to your owners’ manual for specific instructions unique to your make and model. It is recommended to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or every 3 years, whichever comes first.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is probably the second most important automotive fluid because it supports the ability to stop your car from driving. Having low brake fluid levels will result in delayed braking, brake squealing, and all sorts of other poor brake performance issues. To check brake fluid levels, be sure your engine is off and completely cool. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the brake fluid reservoir. After today, check your brake fluid once per year.

Power Steering Fluid

Most cars require power steering fluid. If you notice that your steering wheel is getting harder to control, you could be low on fluid. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the power steering reservoir, which is usually on the passenger side of the engine. Be sure the engine is off and cold before checking your fluid levels. Your owners’ manual may recommend differently, but the general rule of thumb for changing out power steering fluid is once every 2 to 3 years.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Most often forgotten or overlooked, windshield wiper fluid is an essential part of driver and passenger safety. This is a fluid anyone can re-fill themselves, as needed. Simply by this well-known blue solution at a gas station or auto parts store. Refill as needed.

Has your car crossed into junk car territory and no longer stands as an investment-worthy asset? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car in Louisville, Kentucky for an instant cash payout. We provide free junk car removal!

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Are There Precious Metals in Junk Cars?

You can expect to find steel, iron, and even copper in the entirety of a vehicle. But would you expect to find precious metals like gold or silver? Well, you should! All motorized commodities contain some degree of precious metal their design. Continue below to learn which precious metals are more likely to be included in the manufacturing of a vehicle, plus how you can make the most money by selling your junk car in Louisville, Kentucky.

Junk Car Company Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Junk Car Company Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

Junk Car Precious Metals

The most common precious metals in cars are platinum, palladium, gold, and sometimes silver. The quantity and type of precious metal in your junk car will depend on several factors, namely the make and model, but also the current condition.

Silver

Silver can be found in car batteries and circuit boards. Silver-oxide batteries are used in military fleet vehicles, so it is unlikely that your junk car has precious metal in its battery. As for electronic circuit boards, newer model vehicles contain traces of silver, which can be recycled and repurposed into new commodities.

Gold

As just mentioned, automotive computers operate on electronic circuit boards that contain silver, but these circuit boards also contain gold-plated fingers. Newer model vehicles that have onboard computerized systems like GPS, navigation, stereo, Bluetooth, and even engine modules will contain these gold-plated components. Gold can also be found in car airbags, although only in trace amounts.

Platinum

Platinum isn’t just for jewelry. It is very likely that your personal vehicle contains platinum. All cars and trucks manufactured within the last three decades have a catalytic converter, which is an automotive part that filters toxic emissions generated by burning fuel. Within a catalytic converter is the catalyst, which is typically lined with platinum.

Palladium

Palladium is a metal you might’ve seen in a recent superhero movie or read in your favorite comic books. That is because palladium is a rare-occurring, exotic metal that is high in economic value, making it perfect for fantasy story lines. But the truth is, palladium is also used in the manufacturing of common automotive parts like catalytic converters. Palladium alloy made with platinum and rhodium is often used as a catalyst lining, serving as cost-effective alternative to former manufacturing methods for catalytic converters.

Are you interested in selling your junk vehicle for a high amount of cash in the Louisville area? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to speak with a trusted Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!

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Can an Electric Car Be Recycled for its Copper?

Auto recycling is one of the most important planet-preserving enterprises of today, and that applies worldwide. So much so, in fact, that modern automakers are designing their models with a more Eco-conscious agenda. Electric vehicles are the perfect example!

Can electric cars be recycled for their copper and other valuable metals once they are junked or totaled? Well, the answer is a resounding YES! Continue below to learn which valuable metals are found inside electric cars, making them the perfect non-motorized asset to recycle!

Electric Car Buyers Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Electric Car Buyers Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

Is There a Lot of Copper in Electric Vehicles?

There are three common types of electric vehicles humming about on the roads today: battery electric vehicles (BEV), plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEV), and standard hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). Regardless of type, all electric vehicles are made with all sorts of metal and metal components, including aluminum, bauxite, lithium, cobalt, and even traces of precious metals like gold and silver. But being as though they are powered by electricity, they tend to have a good quantity of metal with good conductivity and ductileness, like copper.

How much copper? Well, a lot.

Battery electric vehicles (BEV) are powered by a battery-powered electric motor. They contain an average of 183 pounds of copper. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) primarily use an electric motor but have fuel engines and gasoline reserves for backup after the battery runs out of charge. They must be plugged in to recharge, and contain an average of 132 pounds of copper. Standard hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) combine the power of fuel with an electric motor, and they contain the lowest average copper composition, coming in at 85 pounds.

How do these copper values compare to the average American-made vehicle? Well, the average American car contains around 55 pounds of copper wiring and copper components and electric cars have at least three times as much! Although most of the copper content found in electric cars comes from the rotors, systems like circuit boards, batteries, and electric motors can also contain copper.

How to Recycle an Electric Car

Although electric cars are just getting started in the auto manufacturing industry, accidents and breakdowns happen. If you have an electric vehicle that wrecked or totaled, consider selling it to a local Louisville auto salvage yard. Reputable junkyards will even pay you the scrap value in cash! By recycling a junked or totaled electric car, you can support its greener initiative and help the environment in whole!

Do you need to scrap an electric vehicle? What about a standard, gas or diesel powered vehicle? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your wrecked electric car in Louisville, Kentucky for cash on the spot! We also provide free junk car removal!

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What it Means When the Check Engine Light Comes On

Uh oh. The one light on your dashboard you don’t want to see come on just did. What does it mean when your Check Engine Light lights up? Well, the answer isn’t always so clear. Continue below to learn some top reasons why Check Engine Lights come on, plus what you should do now that yours is illuminated.

Sell Junk Car Near Me Louisville KY 502-804-5605
Sell a Junk Car in Louisville 502-804-5605

Check Engine Light Basics

Also known as a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), the Check Engine Light is designed to do just that: indicate when there is a malfunction occurring within one of the systems in your vehicle. Is your Check Engine Light solid or flashing? In most cases, this light will illuminate in a solid orange, yellow, or amber color. If the Check Engine Light is flashing, it is typically indicative of a more serious automotive malfunction or breakdown.

Common Causes of an Illuminated Check Engine Light

In most cases, a Check Engine Light will come on because the gas cap is loose or needs replaced. So, always check this first before moving forward with diagnosing and illuminated Check Engine Light. In moderate cases, the Check Engine Light will illuminate if one of the vehicle’s internal systems is experiencing a malfunction or decline in performance. In serious cases, a Check Engine Light can come on as a result of misfiring, an overheating catalytic converter, or an internal fire hazard. In these occurrences, the MIL will generally present itself in flashing form. In rare cases, the MIL will illuminate for no reason at all.

One of top reasons why Check Engine Lights come on is because a part needs to be replaced, such as:

↔ Mass Airflow Sensor
↔ O2 Sensors
↔ Catalytic Converter
↔ Ignition Coils
↔ Spark Plugs
↔ Fuel Injectors
↔ Thermostat
↔ Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) Purge Control Valve
↔ Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) Purge Solenoid

How to Diagnose a Check Engine Light

There are two ways you can go about diagnosing the reason why your vehicle’s Check Engine Light came on. You can take your car into a local auto shop and have a mechanic diagnose the issue using an industry specific code reader. You can also choose to purchase your own code reader and perform diagnostics yourself. You can expect a mechanic to charge you anywhere from $75 dollars to $120 for Check Engine Light diagnostic service.

Over-the-counter code readers drastically range in price, anywhere between $25 and $800, so you have quite the selection to choose from. The pricier the device, the more accurate the readings are likely to be. Also, the more expensive code readers typically offer additional features separate from Check Engine Light diagnostics. This is why they cost more. The cheaper code readers may not provide the most accurate diagnostics, which may require you to take it in for professional service in the end. So, he was when making your purchase selection. If you are going to perform your own Check Engine Light diagnostics.

Did your Check Engine Light code results reveal that your car is totally junked? If so, trade it in for cash on the spot, then place that profit towards a new car! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car in Louisville, Kentucky for an instant cash payout. We provide FREE junk car removal!

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Why Did My Car Battery Corrode?

As someone who’s been driving for many years, you’ve come to learn quite well the importance of your car battery. Car batteries work ongoing maintenance and routine replacement. Without proper care, car batteries will decline in both efficiency and performance. If you’ve been having problems starting or maintaining charge in your car battery, you might want to pop open the hood and take a look at its current condition. If you notice a white, scum like film accumulating around and within the battery terminals, it is an indication of battery corrosion.

Continue reading to learn more about battery corrosion, including what causes it to happen and what you can do about it.

Auto Parts Recycling Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605
Auto Parts Recycling Louisville Kentucky 502-804-5605

Identifying Car Battery Corrosion

Car battery corrosion is common, especially in old car batteries. It is easy to diagnose a corroded car battery because the bright crust that forms on and around the battery terminals is hard to miss. It looks similar to dried-up toothpaste, ranging in colors from white to greenish or light blue hues. It starts white, but once, but upon exposure to moisture, it will turn to a greenish or blue color. Furthermore, corrosion crust accumulates in large masses, so once it is discovered, there is usually a large deposit to deal with.

What Causes a Car Battery to Corrode?

When a car battery is corroded, the crust impedes the electrical connection because it is a bad conductor of electricity. It causes a transient current flow, which means the electricity circles right back to the battery just keep the battery charged. Your car might turn on, but the engine will not be able to start.

The most common causes for car battery corrosion development include overcharging, gas escape, and old age. If your car battery is overcharged, the fluid within the battery terminals will expand. This will cause an overflow of liquid inside of the car battery, which can basically flood the terminals with acid. Acid causes corrosion, which in turn generates corrosion development.

Gas escape is another common reason why car batteries develop corrosion. This usually depends on the type of car battery and how it’s placed within the vehicle. Car batteries have tiny vents that allow hydrogen gas to flow through them. Sometimes these hydrogen gases can come in contact with the battery terminals or car cables, thus triggering corrosion. As already mentioned, old car batteries are more prone to car battery corrosion.

What To Do About Battery Corrosion

If your car battery is corroded, you must take a closer look to determine your compatible options. You see, just because a car battery is corroded does not mean that it is junked. It is possible to clean the corrosion off of a car battery, so long as you have the right materials and use the right methods. If your battery is new, you should try cleaning the corrosion before replacing the battery altogether. If your battery is old, or approaching the 4 to 5 year mark, battery replacement is the best option for you. Sell your used car battery to a Louisville scrapyard for cash on the spot!

To clean the corrosion off of a car battery, you will need baking soda, petroleum jelly, anti-corrosion pads, a stiff bristle brush or wire brush, safety goggles, work gloves, clean water, and rags. Always disconnect your battery cables starting with the negative (-) cable first before you begin cleaning your car battery. Combine the baking soda, usually around a teaspoon, with the petroleum jelly to create a paste. Apply the paste all over the corrosion and scrub away with your anti-corrosion pads or stiff bristle brush. Thoroughly rinse the car battery when you are finished, then allow it to dry completely.

Do you have some junk auto parts that you’d like to sell for cash on the spot? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell used car parts in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts.

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